New: 2026 ALTA Survey Standards
Approximately every five years, NSPS revises the ALTA/NSPS Land Title Surveys Standards. Newly revised standards were slated for 2026. The following is a summary of changes to the standards that supersede the previous version (2021) and had an effective date of February 23, 2026.
Overview of the 2026 ALTA Survey Updates
At its core, an ALTA Land Title Survey is a highly detailed survey product that supports the title insurance industry as it focuses on title matters. In coordination with the minimum standard requirements are optional Table A items that allow the survey to depict non-title items, primarily property conditions, and provide a more thorough representation of the subject property.
Updates to the minimum standards occur every five years to allow for evolving technologies and clearer communication between the surveyor and the ordering party. Although not substantial, the 2026 standards address both issues through changes in several line items and amendments to Table A as part of broader advancements in land surveying and modern data collection methods.
Changes to the ALTA Minimum Standards
Here’s what changed:
- Language in the Minimum Standards
- The definition of Relative Positional Precision (RPP) was refined to improve the understanding of measurement quality.
- Land tracks are now all referenced as “property” for consistency
- Drone and LiDAR are now accepted as methods for data collection as part of the Minimum Standards, rather than as a Table A option
- Document research can be conducted by the surveyor as well as the title company. NOTE: This was always the standard in the State of Ohio.
- Regarding lines of possession, the survey must note evidence of possession or occupation along the entire perimeter regardless of proximity to the perimeter boundary lines.
- Clarification that any verbal statement tied to conversations with landowners or occupants relating to title or boundary issues must be noted on the survey.
- Certification: It is recommended that the survey is only certified to successors and assigns if they represent the lending party, as it will only serve for the life of the loan.
Amendments to Optional Table A items
- Item 15 has been rewritten to clarify that certain features can be shown using aerial or satellite imagery, but must be agreed upon in writing by the client.
- NEW Item 20 that requires the surveyor to provide a summary table of conditions and potential encroachments on the face of the plat or map. This is only a summary and should not express a statement of legal opinion by the surveyor as to ownership and should only serve to identify physical conditions.
- Item 21 – with the addition of the new Item 20, the previous Item 20 that was left blank to allow for other negotiated items has been renumbered as Item 21.
What These Changes Mean for Surveyors
In summary, the 2026 Minimum Standard Detail Requirements revisions are slight but accommodate emerging technologies used in the industry, along with more specific language to eliminate obscure language that can be problematic in the event of a dispute or legal issue. Surveyors must adhere to these standards and comply with them, along with any applicable state laws or whichever is more stringent. Some of the changes made by NSPS were already part of the Ohio Minimum Standards. In these instances, there will be no significant changes for surveyors in that state, particularly for firms already providing comprehensive land surveying services.
Review the 2026 ALTA Survey Standards
You can review a redline copy of the new 2026 ALTA Survey standards for a detailed look at the updates. If you have questions about how these changes apply to your project, EDG’s Land Surveying and Mapping team is here to help. Contact our team or explore our surveying resources to learn more.